Outcome studies in schizophrenia

Objectives: To outline the limitations of traditional studies of outcome in schizophrenia and to review the findings arising from 'first episode' psyc hosis studies. Method: An extensive literature search was performed and relevant papers we re examined and analysed. Results: Current knowledge regarding outcome predictors in schizophrenia ha s primarily been derived from a series of 'consecutive admission' and 'long -term follow-back' studies. However, methodological considerations may limi t the generalisability of these studies' findings. The prospective evaluati on of first episode cohorts has advanced our knowledge regarding the relati ve importance of premorbid and intercurrent factors in determining outcome in schizophrenia, Conclusions: To date, the 'first episode' strategy has highlighted some pot entially clinically modifiable outcome predictors. These findings may open the way for targeted introduction of measures aimed at preventing poor outc omes in schizophrenia.